A donation is an expression of commitment and trust.  Every time donors make the decision to contribute to Oklahoma State University, they are demonstrating their belief in our vision.

This past fiscal year has been characterized by fluctuating markets, economic volatility and overall consumer uncertainty.  This year’s annual report lauds the actions of those generous supporters who rose above one of the most tumultuous times in our nation’s history to place the needs of our students, our faculty and our programs above an uncertain economy.  This commitment to human potential is the very embodiment of an Intrepid Spirit.

Perhaps the greatest testament to the strength of this connection is the timing of these gifts. Despite the economic stresses, our donor community continued to generously support OSU. We are truly grateful for such a sustained commitment to education.

In 2008-09, OSU donors contributed an impressive $84.6 million to support numerous academic and athletic areas across the OSU system.  In addition, a record-breaking $1.4 million was raised from thousands of modest donations given by the Cowboy faithful to our annual giving program.  Even greater than these dollar amounts is the total number of donors who chose to give back to the university – more than 36,000 – which eclipses our previous high.

While these are impressive numbers, it is the impact that those dollars create that is the most important result of this generosity.  In the spirit of our land-grant mission, OSU supporters step forward in good times and bad to provide access to our portal to the future.

We are grateful for the remarkable support we receive annually from you.  As we look ahead to meeting new challenges, we renew our commitment to maintaining the trust of our existing supporters and to winning the confidence of new donors. 

We view the future with confidence. We are in the midst of an era of unprecedented collaboration with those who choose to invest in the OSU future. As our momentum continues to build, we are encouraged by the enthusiasm that is being created through the strategic alignment of our institution with those who are passionate about our mission.  

Your investment in our student s and research is an investment in the future of all Oklahoma and America. Your support of Oklahoma State University is a vote of confidence — a precious covenant we do not take for granted.

It is my hope that as you read this report you will discover meaningful and creative ways in which we can work together to fulfill your passion at OSU.

With our warmest appreciation,

Monty Butts                                                    Kirk A. Jewell
Chairman                                                       President and CEO